In today’s MLB DFS slate, we’ll dive into the top hitters to target, backed by statistical insights and matchup analysis. Here are the top five hitters you should consider, along with a few under-the-radar plays to give your lineup an edge.
Matchup: Soto faces Chris Paddack, who has a 4.32 xERA and 22% K%. Soto’s power and plate discipline make him a top play against a pitcher with inconsistencies.
Aaron Judge (NYY) vs. Chris Paddack (MIN)
Stats: .348 ISO, .464 xwOBA, 17.9% BB%
Matchup: Judge’s immense power is a significant threat to Paddack, whose 30% Hard Contact rate could lead to big hits. Judge’s ability to draw walks and hit for power makes him an elite option.
Jose Ramirez (CLE) vs. Brady Singer (KC)
Stats: .204 ISO, .348 xwOBA, 10.3% BB%
Matchup: Ramirez is facing Singer, who has a 4.35 xERA and 21% K%. Ramirez’s combination of power and speed makes him a great play, especially against a pitcher prone to giving up hard contact (38%).
Mookie Betts (LAD) vs. Paul Skenes (PIT)
Stats: .229 ISO, .391 xwOBA, 13.7% BB%
Matchup: Betts faces Skenes, who has a 2.83 xERA and 36% K%. Despite the tough matchup, Betts’ ability to handle elite pitching and his high walk rate makes him a solid option.
Fernando Tatis Jr. (SDP) vs. Jose Soriano (LAA)
Stats: .187 ISO, .360 xwOBA, 6.8% BB%
Matchup: Tatis goes up against Soriano, who has a 3.98 xERA and 11% BB%. Tatis’ power and speed combo, along with Soriano’s control issues, give him a high ceiling.
Under-the-Radar Plays
Kyle Manzardo (CLE) vs. Brady Singer (KC)
Stats: .118 ISO, .232 xwOBA (limited data)
Matchup: While his sample size is small, Manzardo’s potential against a pitcher with a high Hard Contact rate like Singer makes him an interesting low-cost play.
Willie Calhoun (LAA) vs. Dylan Cease (SDP)
Stats: .164 ISO, .329 xwOBA
Matchup: Calhoun faces Cease, who has a 4.25 ERA and 10% BB%. Calhoun’s ability to hit righties well and Cease’s occasional control issues make him a sneaky play.
Seiya Suzuki (CHC) vs. Erick Fedde (CHW)
Stats: .200 ISO, .348 xwOBA, 8.9% BB%
Matchup: Suzuki’s power against Fedde, who has a 3.43 xERA and 23% K%, offers good upside. Suzuki’s ability to handle righties well could pay off in this matchup.
Riley Greene (DET) vs. Jose Urena (TEX)
Stats: .202 ISO, .388 xwOBA, 10.9% BB%
Matchup: Greene’s power and patience at the plate make him a strong play against Urena, who has a 4.09 xERA and struggles with control (10% BB%).
Josh Naylor (CLE) vs. Brady Singer (KC)
Stats: .214 ISO, .362 xwOBA, 8.3% BB%
Matchup: Naylor’s power and Singer’s propensity to give up hard contact make this a favorable matchup. Naylor’s ability to hit righties well adds to his appeal.
Conclusion
These hitters provide a mix of high upside and value, making them top targets for today’s DFS slate. By analyzing their matchups and statistical profiles, you can build a well-rounded lineup that maximizes your chances of success. Don’t forget to consider the under-the-radar plays to differentiate your lineup and gain an edge over the competition. Happy DFSing!